14/10/2023 Well time stops for no man and the orchid season is nearing its end. For Deb and I this will be our last planned orchid hunt for the season. Later flowers do bloom right though to Feb. However, we call it quits now that the snakes are active, and the orchid pickings are slim. So, what better place to finish the season than at Helm’s Arboretum? It is a part of the 4000 ha Helms Forestry Reserve. There is not much of a tale to tell initially. I will just post pictures of the many Sun orchids found flowering. NOTE: Access to Florabase for info on each orchid is linked via the scientific name.
We check out a newer area of the arboretum where the soil is mainly white sand. This is to see if this habitat turns up anything new or more of the same. OMG we are very excited to find our very first Flying Duck orchids. These orchids belong to their own genus: Paracaleana of which 15 species are found in WA. 4 of which are found in the Shire of Esperance. From these 4 I feel these to be the Broad-billed duck orchid (Paracaleana triens) which flower Sept-Oct.
After a restful night at the Deralinya Homestead campground, we enjoy a peaceful breakfast. We then quickly pack up camp and head off on the track to Mount Coobaninya. But, after less than 2kms we turn back due to many trees fallen on the track. It seems the strong winds we encountered on the Nullarbor hit here with impact.
Back at the Homestead we pull up at the granite rock that forms the catchment for the dam and go for an orchid exploration. Sun orchids are found with some actually open so we can record their finding. They appear to be the Granite sun orchid (Thelymitra petrophila) which is found flowering from August to November. They occur from Mullewa out to Israelite Bay which is southeast of here.
So many Sun orchids found both flowering and still in bud. The other orchid found was the Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile) which are found between Shark Bay and the Great Australian Bight. These ones are not as far gone as the ones found yesterday.
We have a quick look at the homestead as the occupants had left for the morning. It was very interesting to see. The Heritage Council of WA has this recorded on it’s website : The well constructed buildings of local materials were built by a well known character of the area. George Burns Scott was a pioneer with a dam sinking plant who liked building and establishing stations and then moving on. The painter, A E Baesjou. lived there for some years as a little girl. The property was used as an outstation to Balladonia until 1936 when the roofs were removed. The last load of wool was taken out in 1920. Cattle were run there until 1936.
Moving further south we next stop at Breeboorinia Rock. The occupants from Deralinya Homestead cleared the track into here of fallen trees this same morning. This was opportune for us. Upon exploring the rock, we first come across the Granite sun orchid. Only 2 good specimens found with pics taken for recording purposes.
The Desert mignonette orchid (Microtis eremicola)was also found growing on the granite. As these orchids flower during September and October only a couple of newly flowering orchids were located. As the common name suggests, these orchids are found in a drier part of the state. Their recorded range is between Hyden and Balladonia.
Then in a bushy patch Deb comes across what appears to be very pale Cowslips. Upon closer inspection, I believe them to be the hybrid known as Dusky fairy orchid (Caladenia x erminea). This is due to the yellow/white colouring. It is also because of the hairs on the underside of the sepals. They are listed as occurring between Esperance and Perth during September through November.
One of the parents to the hybrid was also found in the thick scrub of the granite depression. The Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava)was growing in an isolated group. They were very bright yellow in colour, in comparison to the hybrids.
We quickly check out the dam at the base of the rock. It is covered in wattle pollen, giving it a yellow tinge.
Breeboorinia Rock DamWattle Pollen covers the water
We make our way back to the Triton. On our way out we noticed the colour yellow in the surrounding grasses. Upon closer inspection, it is the Lemon-scented sun orchid (Thelymitra antennifera). This orchid is found flowering from Shark Bay to Israelite Bay during the months July through October.
We now head off and come to the beginning of the farms. In the middle of the farms is Clyde Hill Nature Reserve. Here we pull up and go for an exploration as this is our first visit to this reserve. Well, this proves to be a great location for orchids at this time of the season. Whilst walking along the track into the granite hill, we first come across a solitary Midget greenhood (Pterostylis mutica). A cobweb holds it prisoner.
Then another new orchid for the day is found. Pics of the various ones found in this location will be shown together to reduce the size of this post. The Short-sepaled spider orchid (Caladenia brevisura)flowers in August and September from Jerramungup to Israelite Bay.
Next up we find both the Lemon-scented sun orchid and Granite Sun orchid flowering. These 2 orchids are recorded as being the parents to an Un-named hybrid orchid ( Thelymitra antennifera x petrophila). Amazingly we find one of these in flower as well. I will post pics of all 3 orchids.
Another new orchid for the day is found. The Granite mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. effusa) flowers from August to early October between Peak Charles and Balladonia. The distinctive feature is the slightly upcurved lateral sepals. The related and possibly co-occurring Small mantis orchid has prominently upcurved lateral sepals.
Of course, we also come across the ever-faithful Cowslip orchid. These are found in most locations where orchids flower between Northampton and Israelite Bay. They can be found as early as July right through to December.
Next up is another new orchid for the day. The Pink fairies (Caladenia latifolia) are found from August to December between Kalbarri to Israelite Bay. The bright pink colour stood out from the surrounding greens and browns.
Well, we must keep moving so back to the Triton we go and southwards along Parmango road we head. Along the roadside we come to a spot that appears to have had a summer burn go through. We stop for an exploration. Glad we did as we did as we soon come across the Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis). Actually, we end up finding loads in this spot which was amazing. These unique orchids flower from August to November, between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay.
As we had expected we came across Red Beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans) flowering. These orchids usually only flower after a summer fire the season before. But it is possible to find the odd one flowering without a fire.
Also discovered the large Esperance king spider orchid (Caladenia decora) which flowers from mid-August to October between Bremer Bay and Cape Arid.
Another similar coloured orchid is also found. The Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea) flowers August to early-October between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay.
An inconspicuous orchid is found in the early stages of development. The Common mignonette orchid (Microtis media subsp. media) is found flowering from September to January between Shark Bay and Eyre.
A surprising find was a solitary Common spider orchid (Caladenia varians) in flower. These orchids are found flowering from July to mid-October between Kalbarri and Esperance.
But the best find so far is the Custard orchid (Thelymitra villosa). This was not an expected find at all, so we were shocked in a good way. These orchids are found between Northampton and Esperance flowering over spring.
Two other orchids already found today were also found at this location. Cowslip orchid and Lemon-scented sun orchid just added to the yellow of the Custard orchid. Time to move on to the next location.
We arrive at Beaumont Nature Reserve, park up and head off exploring. Orchids that were recorded earlier today are also found at this location. They are captured in pictures below as a record of where they are found.
New orchids for the day were also found at this location. First up is the Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana) which flowers from August to early-November between Lancelin and Esperance.
Another yellow orchid is found. This time it is the Common bee orchid (Diuris decrementum). It flowers from August to early-October between Wongan Hills and Israelite Bay.
Another pink orchid is found. No not another fairy but a Pink candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea). These orchids flower from late-June to September between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay.
Also found some very pale Pink fairies so just had to share some pics of them. Do not believe they are a hybrid or lutea/hypochromic.
The we come across some donkey orchids. Two different species it seems. Firstly, the distinctive Beautiful donkey orchid (Diuris pulchella) is found. Then a South coast donkey orchid (Diuris brockmanii) is found. The difference in colouring is the major deciding feature.
Next, we come across some of the larger white spider orchids. Based on the location only, I will name one the Esperance white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. crassa). As the name suggests they occur both west and east of Esperance. However, the other has a very different labellum with shorter fringe segments. I feel this one is the Reclining spider orchid (Caladenia cruscula). It occurs between Salmon Gums and Mt Ragged.
We are amazed to stumble across a large number of hybrids. The parents must be the Pink fairies and Cowslips which we have found at this location. The orchid is therefore the named hybrid Spectacular spider orchid (Caladenia x spectabilis). They do vary in colour quite a bit though. Although the hybrid between Cowslips and the Little pink fairy is very similar. One of the pics below seems quite different to the others. A firm ID may be harder to pin down.
As it’s around 4pm, we decide to move on to our final location. We wish to check if the Bird orchids have flowered yet in the Condingup area. We are excited to find them in flower. The Bearded bird orchid (Pterostylis turfosa) is a southern species found from Bunbury to Israelite Bay, flowering in spring.
Time to head home to Esperance. It has been an amazing last day of our 2023 road trip. So many orchids found, which makes up for the days in the desert. So, our adventure ends. Life is wonderful when spent doing what you love.
Today is a much sunnier day than yesterday, so our drive north will be nice and warm. After around 1 hr in the Triton we arrive at Mount Ridley where we first venture up to the Rock Art. Here we show Lorraine, my sister and brother-in-law Ken the art hidden on the underside of the hollowed-out boulder. It is quite amazing.
Providing a size perspective
The unique rock art
Returning from viewing the art
We then go exploring the nearby boulders and other interesting rocky features. It is during this walk around that amazingly, we find an orchid growing in the very hot, dry foliage, in a shallow soil pocket on the granite. The orchid is from the Rufous complex of the Pterostylis genus. The rosette is completely dried as are three of the five flowers. Another similar specimen is found further along which also has a dried rosette and four of the seven flowers are finished. The 2nd specimen appears to match the description for the Striped rufous greenhood (Pterostylis zebrina) which is recorded as flowering in September and October over a range between Karlgarin and Mt Ridley, the latter being our current location.
?? rufous greenhood – Shriveled rosette to flowering orchid.
?? rufous greenhood – 5 flowers to this orchid
?? rufous greenhood – Differing stripes to P. zebrina
?? rufous greenhood – Translucent hood
P. zebrina – Typical habitat
P.zebrina – Long hairs to labellum
P. zebrina – Up-curved lateral sepals
P. zebrina – Uniformly striped hood
We explored a bit more, enjoying the unique rock formations of the area and unexpectedly we came across some other orchids. Orchids from the Microtis genus were found growing with the “Borya” in shallow soil on the granite, with taller ones found growing in the scrub at the base of the rocks. As they had finished flowering it is not possible to positively identify them so will just leave them assigned to their genus.
?? mignonette orchid (Microtis sp.)
?? mignonette orchid (Microtis sp.)
Moving back to the carpark at the base of the rock, we enjoy a bite to eat for lunch at the old well site. Back on foot we walk around to the rock wave, for some quiet contemplation, before heading home for a coldie.
Upon leaving the Jerramungup burnt are we head east looking for somewhere to park up for the night. We make it about 35kms when we pull into the Jacup Highway Park at the Fitzgerald River crossing. This will do, so we set up the camper and I do my best to drive over a log in my Ford Falcon, not the greatest idea 🙂 I’ve had.
Now we still have the late afternoon to go orchid hunting. As per our previous visit to this location, we are not disappointed. First, we find the Green spider/Fringed mantis orchid (Caladenia falcata) flowering in isolation and in small groups over the entire area we checked out.
Calli extend to mid lobe only
Clubbed sepals
Parent and hybrid child
As can be seen in the picture above the hybrid, Wheatbelt spider orchid (Caladenia x cala) was also found. It was amazing how many were actually found, as we usually find one or two only in each location.
Attractive hybrid
Red hockey stick shaped calli
Regularly found in twins
Standing up to 400mm in height
Long fringe segments to greenish-white, red-tipped labellum
Long pendulous lateral sepals
Another parent and hybrid child
And of course, we also found the other parent for the hybrid. The Stark white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. eminens) occurs as far east as Ravensthorpe and grows in open woodlands so seems to fit the bill.
Broad labellum
Broad bases to lateral sepals
May be found in tight groups
Bright white in colour
Labellum yet to curl under
Next, we find the very special Lazy spider orchid (Caladenia multiclavia) which is recorded as occurring between Wongan Hills, Borden and Ravensthorpe. This unusual looking orchid is known for its upright petals and sepals plus the smooth striped labellum with a dense band of bristly headed calli.
Tied up with cobwebs
All sepals and petals held upright
Horizontally held flowers.
Lazing with friends
Greenish-yellow flowers with heavy red striping and shading
Striped diamond shaped labellum
Can stand up to 250mm in height
A mobile labellum – Vertical to Horizontal
Dorsal sepal and petals almost joined.
Lazing in the late afternoon sunshine
We also come across a mixture of other orchids but not in great numbers, so I will record then with only 1 pic each. Firstly, there is the ever-reliable Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava) and Common mignonette orchid (Microtis media subsp. media). Both are common, widespread orchids. Then the more rarely found, without a recent summer fire, Red Beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans) is discovered with a nine-flower inflorescence. Finally, a pale coloured Pink candy orchid (Caladenia hirta subsp. rosea) and possibly a Ravensthorpe rufous greenhood (Pterostylis leptochila) yet to fully flower are found.
Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava)
Common mignonette orchid (Microtis media subsp. media)
One orchid not expected was the Common dragon orchid (Caladenia barbarossa)which is found flowering between Bindoon and Munglinup. There are only 4 species of dragon orchids, and all are endemic to WA. Only 2 specimens found but still very happy.
Column overlooks the large major callus
Standing up to 300mm in height
Spreading petals and lateral sepals
Distinctive hairy labellum
However, one final orchid is found in decent numbers. The Drooping spider orchid (Caladenia radialis), is found flowering between Northampton and Ravensthorpe from August to October. The labellum can have smooth margins or tiny marginal teeth.
Drooping petals and lateral sepals
Dorsal sepal can be held erect.
Two distinct bands of calli
Dorsal sepal can also droop
Red striped labellum
Stand up to 350mm in height
Back to camp due to the fading light.
Small campfire lit
We awake to a beautiful sunny morning, have breakfast then decide we will take some time this morning to complete a search down to the river. Fingers crossed for something new.
First up though I will post pictures of those orchids we come across that we also found in our afternoon search yesterday.
Drooping spider orchid (Caladenia radialis)
Wheatbelt spider orchid (Caladenia x cala)
Stark white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. eminens)
Common mignonette orchid (Microtis media subsp. media)
Lazy spider orchid (Caladenia multiclavia)
Now for the new findings of the location. The Short-sepaled spider orchid (Caladenia brevisura) is found between Jerramungup and Israelite Bay from August to October. Only one specimen found, and not the best picture, but a record non the less. Another sole specimen found was that of the Bee orchid (Diuris laxiflora) which flowers September to early November between Gingin and Esperance.
Short-sepaled spider orchid (Caladenia brevisura)
Bee orchid (Diuris laxiflora)
Blue sun orchids are found in good numbers closer to the river. Now identifying them is needed. As I am writing this account over 12mth later I am identifying them from pictures taken. Based on these I feel some to be Scented sun orchid (Thelymitra macrophylla) due to the broad leaf and large numerous flowers. Others though have thin leaves with fewer flowers, so are most likely the Shy sun orchid (Thelymitra graminea). Both are recorded as flowering in the Shires of Ravensthorpe and Jerramungup during the month of October.
Shy sun orchid (Thelymitra graminea)
Shy sun orchid (Thelymitra graminea)
Shy sun orchid (Thelymitra graminea)
?? sun orchid (Thelymitra sp.)
Scented sun orchid (Thelymitra macrophylla)
Scented sun orchid (Thelymitra macrophylla)
Scented sun orchid (Thelymitra macrophylla)
Scented sun orchid (Thelymitra macrophylla)
?? sun orchid (Thelymitra sp.)
Sun orchid with Green spider orchid
?? sun orchid (Thelymitra sp.)
It is 11am so we had better push on as we need to arrive home in Esperance today. One last stop is made at Kukenarup Memorial, where we enjoy a spot of lunch before one last exploration for orchids.
Next stop on our winding drive back to Esperance is another new location. Anderson Lake Nature Reserve which is 30kms east as the crow flies from Pootenup Nature Reserve, will hopefully produce some different orchids. As we get close to the location it is apparent that it is much drier so let’s see if we actually find anything at all.
As anticipated, we struggled to find any orchids, however the ones found were indeed different. Very close to where we park, we find our first orchid. The Purple veined spider orchid (Caladenia doutchiae) flowers August through October, between Mullewa and Ravensthorpe. References checked indicate it is found growing on rises around salt lakes, which is exactly the habitat we are currently searching. Four sperate flowers were located, which portray the variable colouring to this species.
Smooth margined, variably coloured, red tipped labellum
Narrow band of labellum calli
Flowers 15 to 30mm across
Purple veins to sepals
Long, shortly clubbed lateral sepals
Short, backswept petals
It was another 15mins or so before we stumbled across another orchid. This time it was the Midget greenhood (Pterostylis mutica) that caught Debs eye. The lime green colouring stands out against the otherwise brown foliage. These small orchids flower July through October, between Wongan Hills and the SA border. They are also found in QLD, NSW, Vic, Tas and SA. Florabase mentions they are known to grow around saline lakes, again confirming we are in suitable habitat.
From the latin MUTICUS (without a point, awn less, blunt) alluding to the blunt petals and sepals.
The next orchid found was a pleasant surprise. First up we thought it was a frog greenhood, but as we settled in to take some photos it became apparent that it was another species. After getting back into the Triton we are excited to note that this is a new species for us. The Ruddy hood (Pterostylis perculta) flowers from late September to early November between Kojonup and Cape Arid National Park. It was only formally named in 2015, previously called sp. “Ongerup’ which alludes to its location. It is a small orchid growing to 150mm in height, may have up to 5 flowers per orchid and is found growing in sandy-clay and clay soils.
Almost hairless labellum
Straight to slightly upcurved lateral sepals
70-150mm in height
As alluded to earlier we had returned to the Triton as this location did not prove overly productive, however finding a new species is always amazing. We head north up to Gnowangerup, then west stopping along the roadside in Kebaringup. I believe this is only our 2nd time visiting this location so we will see what turns up this time.
Straight up the large white spider orchids catch our eye. The Stark white spider orchid (Caladenia longicauda subsp. eminens) is probably the species found, based solely on location. They flower August to early October between Moora and Esperance and can grow to 600mm in height.
Little laughing leek orchid (Prasophyllum gracile)
Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava)
Green spider orchid (Caladenia falcata)
More Purple veined spider orchids are found in better numbers. Then another single specimen on anorchid is found. The Common mignonette orchid (Microtis media subsp. media) is a widespread orchid being found flowering between Shark Bay and Eyre during the months of September through January. The final orchid found for the day was a good bunch of Jospeh’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma), which are found between Boyup Brook and the Fitzgerald River National Park during the months of September and October.
Purple-veined spider orchid (Caladenia doutchiae)
Common mignonette orchid (Microtis media subsp. media)
Joseph’s spider orchid (Caladenia polychroma)
We decide to move on and look for somewhere to stay the night. As we have 2 vehicles and a camper trailer, we make the decision to check into the Ongerup Gardens Caravan Park for the night. It was a choose you own site sort of place, so we parked up close to the ablutions. This was a great day orchid hunting in our wonderful Western Australian outdoors.
Earlier this season (June) we checked out the burnt area north of Gibson and found greenhoods but nothing else. Now that we are at the other end of the season, we pop out there again to record what is now flowering. After nearly 3hrs searching the area, we were pleased to find so many orchids flowering. I hope you enjoy the photos below, that record what species we found.
Common mignonette orchid (Microtis media subsp. media)
Season: Sept to Jan
Distribution: Shark Bay to Eyre
Habitat: Sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
Common mignonette orchid (Microtis media subsp. media)
Red beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans)
Red beaks (Pyrorchis nigricans)
Season: Aug to Oct
Distribution: Shark Bay to Israelite Bay
Habitat: Sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands. Usually only flower the season following a summer fire.
Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis)
Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis)
Season: Aug to early Nov
Distribution: Kalbarri to Israelite Bay
Habitat: Sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana)
Zebra orchid (Caladenia cairnsiana)
Season: Aug to early Nov
Distribution: Lancelin to Esperance
Habitat: Sandy and sandy-clay soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
Little pink fairy (Caladenia reptans subsp. reptans)
Little pink fairy (Caladenia reptans subsp. reptans)
Season: July to early Oct
Distribution: Northampton to Esperance
Habitat: Sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava)
Cowslip orchid (Caladenia flava subsp. flava)
Season: July to early Dec
Distribution: Northampton to Israelite Bay
Habitat: Sandy, sandy-clay, lateritic and granitic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
Little pink fan orchid (Caladenia nana subsp. nana)
Little pink fan orchid (Caladenia nana subsp. nana)
Season: Late Sept to Oct
Distribution: Perth to Bremer Bay. ( 250kms to the West )
Habitat: Sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests and woodlands. Best in the season following a summer fire.
White fairy orchid (Caladenia marginata)
White fairy orchid (Caladenia marginata)
Season: Late Sept to Nov
Distribution: Jurien Bay to Israelite Bay
Habitat: Sandy and sandy-clay soils in seasonally wet flats and runoff areas on granite outcrops. Flowers best in season following a summer fire.
Blue china orchid (Cyanicula gemmata)
Blue china orchid (Cyanicula gemmata)
Season: Aug to early Nov
Distribution: Kalbarri to Israelite Bay
Habitat: Sandy, sandy-clay, lateritic and granitic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
Granite china orchid (Cyanicula nikulinskyae)
Granite china orchid (Cyanicula nikulinskyae)
Season: Sept to early Nov
Distribution: Fitzgerald River National Park and Israelite Bay
Habitat: Shallow soil pockets on granite outcrops. The recently integrated Condingup china orchid (C. sp ‘Esperance”) was listed as growing in shrublands and woodlands.
Heberle’s spider orchid (Caladenia heberleana)
Heberle’s spider orchid (Caladenia heberleana)
Season: Sept to Oct
Distribution: Augusta to Cape Arid
Habitat: Sandy and sandy-clay soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
Esperance king spider orchid (Caladenia decora)
Esperance king spider orchid (Caladenia decora)
Season: Mid Aug to Oct
Distribution: Bremer Bay to Cape Arid
Habitat: Sandy-clay and clay soils in woodlands and shrublands.
Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima)
Small mantis orchid (Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima)
Season: Aug to early Oct
Distribution: Jerramungup to Israelite Bay
Habitat: Sandy and sandy-clay soils in woodlands and shrublands.
Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea)
Season: Aug to early Oct
Distribution: Kalbarri to Israelite Bay
Habitat: Sandy soils in woodlands and shrublands.
Dancing spider orchid (Caladenia discoidea)
White mignonette orchid (Microtis alba)
White mignonette orchid (Microtis alba)
Season: Oct to Jan
Distribution: Dongara to Esperance
Habitat: Sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests, woodlands and seasonally wet flats. Most common in the season following a summer fire.
Bee orchid (Diuris laxiflora)
Bee orchid (Diuris laxiflora)
Season: Sept to early Nov
Distribution: Gingin to Esperance
Habitat: Sandy-clay and clay soils in seasonally wet areas.
Twisted sun orchid (Thelymitra flexuosa)
Twisted sun orchid (Thelymitra flexuosa)
Season: Sept to Oct
Distribution: Kalbarri and Israelite Bay
Habitat: Seasonally-wet flats and shallow soil pockets on granite outcrops.
Swamp mignonette orchid (Microtis atrata)
Swamp mignonette orchid (Microtis atrata)
Season: Sept – Nov
Distribution: Jurien Bay to Israelite Bay. Also found in SA, Vic and Tas.
Habitat: Sandy-clay and clay soils in seasonally-wet flats.
Hybrid orchid (Caladenia x sp.)
Hybrid orchid (Caladenia flava x reptans)
Season: July to early Dec
Distribution: Northampton to Esperance
Habitat: Sandy, sandy-clay, lateritic and granitic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
18 species and 1 hybrid found in just over 2 and a half hours of searching in the 1 location. A SUPER SUNDAY!!!!!
Saying goodbye to the kids, grandkids and Deb C, we head north for our next location. Here we check out the burnt patch north of Gibson.
Up to 8 flowers per orchid
Red beaks(Pyrorchis nigricans)
Distribution & Habitat: Found between Shark Bay and Israelite Bay, growing in sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands. With rare exceptions, plants flower only in the season following a summer fire. Also found in SA, Vic, NSW & Tas.
Red n white striped flowers
Up to 4 flowers per orchid
Lemon-scented sun orchid(Thelymitra antennifera)
Distribution & Habitat: Found between Shark Bay and Israelite Bay, growing on creek margins, seasonally moist flats and granite outcrops.
Broad petals and sepals
Single, shortly haired leaf
Cowslip orchid(Caladenia flava subsp. flava)
Distribution & Habitat: Found between Northampton and Israelite Bay, growing in sandy, sandy-clay, lateritic and granitic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands. In inland areas the subspecies is found in isolated populations on granite outcrops and rocky hills.
Colony forming on occasions.
Large colourful species, standing 250-500mm in height.
Esperance king spider orchid(Caladenia decora)
Distribution & Habitat: Found between Bremer Bay and Cape Arid, growing in sandy-clay and clay soils in woodlands and shrublands.
Clubbed sepals
Standing 300-800mm in height
Bee Orchid(Diuris laxiflora)
Distribution & Habitat: Found between Gingin and Esperance, growing in sandy-clay and clay soils in seasonally wet areas.
Distribution & Habitat: Found between Lancelin and Esperance, growing in sandy and sandy-clay soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
Dense central band of lamina calli
Smallest flowers in the genus
Swamp mignonette orchid(Microtis atrata)
Distribution & Habitat: Found between Jurien Bay and Israelite Bay, growing in sandy-clay and clay soils in seasonally wet areas. Also found in SA, Vic & Tas.
Up to 40 flowers per orchid
Greenish petal and sepals
Heberle’s spider orchid(Caladenia heberleana)
Distribution & Habitat: Found between Augusta and Cape Arid, growing in sandy and sandy-clay soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
Distribution & Habitat: Found between Jurien Bay and Cape Arid NP, growing in sandy and sandy-clay soils in seasonally wet flats and run-off areas. Flowers best in the season following a summer fire.
Flowering and non-flowering leaves
Up to 3 ,rarely 4 flowers per orchid
Spectacular spider orchid(Caladenia x spectabilis)
Distribution & Habitat: Found between Kalbarri and Esperance, growing in sandy and sandy-clay soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
A hybrid between Cowslip orchid (C. flava) and Pink fairies (C. latifolia)
Pink to apricot flowers
Lateral spreading fringe segments to labellum
Dancing spider orchid(Caladenia discoidea)
Distribution & Habitat: Found between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay, growing in sandy soils in woodlands and shrublands.
Broad central band of dark purplish-black calli
Up to 3 flowers per orchid
Purple enamel orchid (Elythranthera brunonis)
Distribution & Habitat: Found between Kalbarri and Israelite Bay, growing in sandy, sandy-clay and lateritic soils in forests, woodlands and shrublands.
Glossy spreading petals and sepals
Caladenia flava ???Caladenia decora ???Caladenia x spectabilis ???
So many orchids, but as it is after 1.30pm we head off to grab a late lunch at the Esperance Bird & Animal Park .. Hamburgers n chips enjoyed ..I had a GOAT beer to celebrate a wonderful Father’s Day .
Getting towards the end of the orchid season in the Esperance district, so we decide to go check out the reliable Helms Arboretum (Mud Map SE 35). Prior to this though we have our usual cooked breakfast at the Esperance Bird and Animal Park.
Moving onto the arboretum we first stop along side Plot 23(E) and find some blue sun orchids. Now the tricky bit is naming them as 4 different species flower in the Esperance district. I’m leaning toward the Shy sun orchid (Thelymitra graminea), which grows in woodlands and forests between Perth and Esperance during the months of October and November. They grow up to 350mm in height and have up to 8 flowers in their inflorescences. The colour ranges from dark blue to purple or mauve.
We now move down to the arboretum proper where we hope to find some Leopard orchids in flower. Driving along Boundary X we first come across bee orchids before Deb spies a Leopard orchid (Thelymitra benthamiana) which grows in seasonally moist flats between Northampton and Israelite Bay during the spring months of September through November. Further plants were found flowering along Boundary Z.
The bee orchids also took our attention and we grabbed some photos. From their markings they appear to be the Elegant donkey orchid (Diuris concinna) which grows in moist sites amongst low shrubs between Cape Arid and Fitzgerald River National Park. So a local orchid, which flowers from September to early December.
Moving along we drive down between Plots 85 & 86 as some mignonette orchids were visible from Brockman Road. The Common mignonette orchids (Microtis media subsp. media) grow in scrublands, woodlands and forests between Shark Bay and Eyre. Flowering occurs from September to January with plants growing up to 600mm in height.
We now explore further and locate more of the same, however the sun orchids are larger, with longer inflorescences and more varied in their colour. So I believe they are the Scented sun orchids (Thelymitra macrophylla)which grow in forests and open wandoo woodlands between Perth and Albany, however Florabase shows the Esperance Shire as being a location for this orchid. They flower from August to October and can reach a height of 1000mm with more than 15 flowers per orchid.
It has been a beautiful sunny spring Sunday, so getting out and exploring for orchids was a wonderful way to fill up the morning. However, as Deb starts her shift at 2pm it is time to head home and grab some lunch. Five species found today, with the sun orchids stealing the show, with 2 species from the Blue sun orchid complex and the Leopard orchid, the sole member from the Sienna sun orchid complex. Only 1 month left of spring so we may get to explore for orchids this season, only time will tell.
The orchid below I have not named as the flowers are small, refer blowfly for size comparison, and the stems are reddish coloured and quite thick. Leaves have all been eaten off so no help from them. If anyone can assist with the ID that would be appreciated.
So, we awake in Yealering on the Sunday after enjoying the Regatta on the lake the previous day. We are in the local caravan park with friends Sandy, Noel and Richard. After breakfast we all pack up our respective campers and make our separate way home. For us this will be an excuse to go orchid hunting. Fancy that!!!
I do not have a record in my little black book, and I am writing this record more than 12mths after the fact, so my memory fails me. So, this record will record locations and finds only, with no commentary, which some may find refreshing.
Upswept lateral sepalsComb-like fringe segments to labellum
Green spider orchid
(Caladenia falcata)
200 – 400mm in height
Flowers – Late Aug to Oct
Location – Wongan Hills to Jerramungup
Double-header
Smooth yellow crested mid lobe to columnUp to 10 flowers per orchid
Granite sun orchid
(Thelymitra petrophila)
100 – 350mm in height
Flowers – Aug to Nov
Location – Mullewa to South Australia
Grows in shallow soli pockets on granite or breakaways
Elongated petals
Small flowered donkey orchid
(Diuris porrifolia)
150 – 350mm in height
Flowers – Late July – Sept
Location – Moora to Albany
Narrow, sometimes crossed lateral sepals
Elbow orchid
(Spiculaea ciliata)
100-180mm in height
Flowers – Oct to Jan
Location – Kalbarri to Grasspatch
Not fully open
EIGHTY SIX GATE ROAD – UNNAMED NATURE RESERVE
Inverted flowers- Lateral sepals pointing upwards
Little laughing leek orchid
(Prasophyllum gracile)
60 – 200mm in height
Flowers – Jul to Oct
Location – Shark Bay to Eyre
Up to 40, 2-3mm wide flowers per orchid
Granite sun orchid
(Thelymitra petrophila)
Leaf – Narrow, 4-6mm in width
Colour – Blue, purple or pink
Yellow, red marked flowersTri-lobed labellum with short fringe segments and 2 rows of calli
Cowslip orchid
(Caladenia flava subsp. flava)
100 – 250mm in height
Flowers – Jul to early Dec
Location – Geraldton to Israelite Bay
Spreading petals and sepals
Labellum has been triggeredUsual position of labellum
Green spider orchid
(Caladenia falcata)
Another common name – Fringed mantis orchid
Leaf – Single, erect, hairy leaf 100-200mm in length
4 or more rows of deep red calli
Dull, straw-coloured flowers
Elbow orchid
(Spiculatea ciliata)
Habitat – In the north sandy soils over sandstone, In the south soil pockets on granite
Leaf – Fleshy, green and red infused leaf, which is shriveled at time of flowering
Loosely-hinged labellum
Mauve-blue to purple flowersFlattened labellum with numerous calli
Blue china orchid
(Cyanicula gemmata)
40 – 150mm in height
Flowers – Aug to early Nov
Location – Kalbarri and Israelite Bay
Single, short, broad, flattened leafLeaf is purple-suffused underneath
Harrismith / Dudinin area
Granite sun orchid
(Thelymitra petrophila)
Neendaling
Green spider orchid
(Caladenia falcata)
Up to 8 flowers per orchid
Shy sun orchid
(Thelymitra graminea)
150 – 350mm in height
Flowers – Oct to Nov
Location – Perth to Esperance
Column has smooth yellow crested mid lobeThin leaf, 4-5mm in width
Little laughing leek orchid
Little laughingleek orchid
(Prasophyllum gracile)
Common mignonette orchid
(Microtis media subsp. media)
Common mignonette orchid
Newdegate
Upswept, narrowly clubbed lateral sepalsDeep red calli on labellum
Small mantis orchid
(Caladenia attingens subsp. gracillima)
170 – 350mm in height
Flowers – Aug to early Oct
Location – Jerramungup to Israelite Bay
Backswept, deflexed to dropping petals
Little laughing leek orchid
(Prasophyllum gracile)
Inverted flowers
You can tell we are moving into the last few months of the Western Australian orchid season as we only located 9 species over multiple inland locations. The Southwest corner has a much longer season than both the inland and Southeastern areas.
